What’s on – your guide to upcoming events in Manchester

As one of the most culturally exciting cities in the UK, there is something to do every day and night in Manchester. Here, we’ve compiled a list of some of the most eagerly anticipated events coming up in the next few weeks…

Bee in the City – running until Sunday 23 September

A giant colony of bees has been taking over the city centre since July, creating one of the most popular art events Manchester has seen. Over 100 individually designed bees, each representing something unique about Manchester, have been placed at some of the city’s most popular landmarks in the name of charity, creating a trail of art, fun and adventure. The bees will soon be auctioned off in aid of the We Love Manchester fund, but there is still time to track them down and pose for a selfie. Find out more here.

Foodies unite! This annual extravaganza of food and drink will be taking over the city, showcasing the best cuisine Manchester and the north-west has to offer. Cookery demonstrations, restaurant collaborations and one-off events will give punters the chance to try something truly unique. The festival hub is on Albert Square by the Town Hall, and includes a huge real ale and cocktail bar. Click here for more information.

Student shopping night at the Trafford Centre – Tuesday 2 October

Head over to the iconic Trafford Centre, one of the biggest shopping centres in the UK, for an evening of discounts, entertainment and prizes. From 4pm-10pm, this exclusive event for students will see some of the high streets most popular retailers, including Topshop and Selfridges, promote a number of special deals just for students. As well as shopping, the Trafford Centre also offers a huge array of eating options and entertainment including a cinema. For more information click here.

This pioneering event welcomes authors and writers from around the world for three weeks of talks, workshops and storytelling. The event features household names such as Jo Brand and Graham Norton, as well as Manchester’s very own Tony Walsh, and provides unique and imaginative opportunities for audiences to experience high quality live literature. Events take place in venues all over the city, and include a number of free shows. Find out more here.

Super League Grand Final – Saturday 13 October

We don’t yet know who will be competing for the prize at Old Trafford, but we do know the show piece event for rugby league will be an absolute barnstormer of an occasion. Over 70,000 fans regularly pack into the stadium to see who will be crowned the kings of rugby league. The likes of St Helens, Wigan Warriors and Warrington Wolves still remain in the competition, so expect a number of bruising encounters before the final next month. Click here for more information.